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The striker released a statement today, and it read: "I feel lucky to have been involved in this sport for as long as I have. I have had some ups and downs in my career but to have represented clubs like Southampton, Liverpool and playing for my country in a World Cup were beyond my wildest dreams.

Rickie Lambert

"I would like to thank the fans of all the clubs I have for but especially at Southampton where I enjoyed my best years as a football and had a special relationship with everyone connected to the club."